442: David Grey on High Performance Foot Training and Isometric Concepts

Today’s podcast features David Grey. David is the founder of David Grey Rehab, where he works with clients from all walks of life. David’s specialty is assessing his clients' gait cycle in depth to develop a plan to help restore the movement or movements they struggle to perform. David has learned under many great mentors in the world of human movement, athletic development, gymnastics, Chinese martial arts, and biomechanics, and is an expansive thinker, blending many elements of human movement together in a down-to-earth way we can all resonate with. Although there are some differences between rehabilitation and performance strength and power training for athletes, there are also a lot of similarities and connections. The more we can understand good training from both worlds, the more effective our programming and outcomes can be. On today’s episode, David speaks on various aspects of foot training, along with both targeted and overcoming isometric adaptations. He also gets into concepts of loading and intensity in the rehab space, and what tends to be missing from many rehab programs. David covers this and much more in this practical and informative episode. Today’s episode is brought to you by TeamBuildr’s Gym Studio. Use the code “justfly25” for 25% off any Lila Exogen wearable resistance training, including the popular Exogen Calf Sleeves. For this offer, head to: Lilateam.com TeamBuildr is an online software for coaches and trainers. Use the code “JUSTFLY” for a free 30-day trial of the TeamBuildr software. For a Gym Studio 14-day free trial, head to gymstudio.com View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. Main Points 4:17- Sustainable Solutions for Foot Issues Through Orthotics 8:17- Gradual Conditioning for Injury Prevention 11:25- Achilles Tendinopathy Treatment Strategies and Outcomes 12:15- Consistent Methods for Sustainable Fitness Progress 24:19- Intermuscular Coordination in Rehabilitation Exercises 26:17- Optimizing Muscle Function through Inhibition Techniques 27:42- Isometric Exercises Enhancing Nervous System Coordination 29:14- Tendon Health and Safe Training Positions 38:49- Competition-Driven Intensity for Optimal Rehabilitation 50:42- Heavy Loading for Achilles Strength 59:13- Movement Improvement Through Rehab-Inspired Training Approach Quotes (5:59) "You need to separate out: This is for analgesic effect before my session and this is separate to that. I am doing these exercises to get stronger or to improve whatever other qualities I need." - David Grey (7:03) "I will work a lot with how their foot moves. Not because a Pronated foot or a supinated foot is a better foot. Just because I would like, if you have joints, I would like them to be able to move and they don't have to be able to move a lot, but just to be able to move a little bit at least" - David Grey (7:20) "Not all, but some of the best world-class sprinters that I've been lucky enough to work with have the most mushed-up feet." -David Grey (29:14) "When you see the shake, you know something is happening." - David Grey (38:15) "I think it's actually especially in my world, in the rehab world, people will not give you their all. They're holding back either because they're purposefully holding back or they're subconsciously holding back, but they really will not give you their all" - David Grey (43:58) "It's intensity and competition both missing in rehab hugely. And it's a huge problem. Humongous problem." - David Grey (44:49) "The stimulus to heal needs to be greater than whatever hurts you." (59:39) "I just think this is good training, to be honest." - David Grey About David Grey David Grey is the founder of David Grey Rehab, a renowned movement and rehabilitation specialist dedicated to helping athletes and individuals overcome chronic pain, prevent injuries, and optimize performance. David has gained international recognition for his innovative approach to movement assessment, biomechanics, and injury rehabilitation. Drawing from a diverse background in sports performance, manual therapy, and functional movement, David developed the "Lower Body Basics" program, a flagship offering that has transformed how athletes and coaches approach mobility and stability training. His methods emphasize the integration of the body as a connected system, with a particular focus on improving joint health, restoring natural movement patterns, and addressing compensations and imbalances at their root cause. David has worked with elite athletes across various sports, including soccer, rugby, tennis, and track and field, as well as recreational athletes and everyday individuals looking to move pain-free. His practical and adaptable teachings have made him a sought-after speaker, hosting workshops and online courses worldwide. Through his clinic, online platform, and educational resources, David continues to bridge the gap between rehabilitation and performance, empowering his clients to achieve long-term health and resilience.